Tony Blair to Speak at Commencement

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Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair will deliver the commencement address at Colby’s 191st Commencement ceremonies this spring.

Tony Blair served as Prime Minister of Great Britain and Northern Ireland from May 1997 to June 2007, as leader of Britain’s Labour Party from 1994 to 2007, and as a Member of Parliament from 1983 to 2007). Since leaving Downing Street, Tony Blair has served as the Quartet Representative to the Middle East. He represents the United States of America, United Nations, Russia and the European Union, working with the Palestinians to prepare for statehood as part of the international community’s effort to secure peace. He has launched the Tony Blair Faith Foundation to promote respect and understanding between the major religions and to make the case for faith as a force for good in the modern world. The Tony Blair Africa Governance Initiative helps some of Africa’s most dynamic leaders deliver the change their people need to relieve poverty.

“Colby is honored that Tony Blair will address the Class of 2012, their families, and the faculty and staff of the College,” said President William D. Adams. “The issues to which he has dedicated his life are on the forefront of our students’ minds, especially as they enter their own professional lives. I know that his address, and his presence on our campus, will be a potent reminder for the graduates of the impact one dedicated person can have on the world.”